Solar Panel with Pivoting Side Supports

ABSTRACT

A folded down support ( 12 ) allows for stronger solar panels ( 10 ) and the support replaces most of the solar racking required for solar installation which further reduces the cost of the photovoltaic solar system. The solar panels ( 10 ) can be arranged so that solar panels form a solar collector solar panel array. The solar panel ( 10 ) can be set on a surface by itself or with ballast ( 43 ). It can also be attached to the surface by fastening the solar panel to the side supports. If the solar panel frame and supports are electrically conductive, the design allows for self electrical grounding between these conductive parts when the side supports are pivoted to the down position. The folded up support allows for high density storage and shipping.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The inventive technology disclosed herein has application in the fieldof packaging, shipping, and mounting solar panels.

BACKGROUND

The field of solar power has become very important. Solar power systemscan be installed in huge seas as well as for individual residential andcommercial usage. These individual systems can supply power to anunderlying structure, and can also supply excess power into the grid orthe like. For individual systems, it is not uncommon to locate thesesystems on the roofs of buildings. These roofs can be angled roofs orflat roofs. In many commercial applications a flat roof is frequentlyencountered and the solar panel system is placed on the roof itself. Inorder to remain economic, it is not only important that individual solarpanels or the like produce a significant amount of power, but it canalso be important that both the materials and structures be reasonablypriced, and that the actual installation be achieved without too muchdifficulty.

The perspective of initial installation of the solar power system isalso important in the overall economics of this field. For instance,while solar power systems are bought from manufacturers who frequentlymake individual complements, a separate installer is frequently employedto actually site, locate, and connect collective of power componentrythat makes a roof mount or other solar power system. Installers, ofcourse, have differing degrees of capabilities. In addition, the initialcost of the system should not be increased significantly for simply theaction of installing it on a pre-existing roof or other surface.Furthermore, the cost of the solar panels and other such componentryitself is significant enough that the cost of an underlying structure,should not be so large as to greatly increase the cost of the overallsystem. As may be imagined, there is constant pressure to makeunderlying structures and indeed the entire solar power system, lessexpensive. Thus, small amounts of savings can add up and are desired.Beyond the cost of the system, the actual labor of installation is alsoin focus. The more time an installer needs to spend on a roof or otherarea installing individual componentry, the more expensive the overallsystem is to a user. Thus, it is desirable to reduce the cost of notonly the componentry involved, but also to reduce the cost of theinstallation labor. This can occur, most significantly, by reducing theamount of the labor needed to achieve the installation. Thus, it isdesirable to present solar power systems that take less time to installand that cost less to purchase.

FIGS. 1-10 show the typical framed solar panel used in the solarindustry. As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the Typical Frame, 2, on theTypical Solar Panel, 1, is thick (top to bottom). This is required tostrengthen the Typical Solar Panel, 1, and to keep the Laminate, 3, fromover bending. There are also maximum frame bending requirements underloads required by code and standards that need to be met.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show a Typical Solar Panel. 1, with Typical Frames, 2,joined together by a Typical Corner Swage, 4. The Typical Frame, 2, canalso be fastened together by Screws, 8, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIGS. 5 and 6 shows one type of Laminate, 3, which consists of TopGlass, 7, the Solar Cell Area, 5, and the Backsheet, 6. This Laminate,3, is not strong and needs the thick Typical Frame, 2, as shown in FIG.6.

FIGS. 9 and 10 shows a different type of Laminate, 3. This Laminate, 3,has a Top Glass, 7, a Solar Cell Area, 5, and a Bottom Glass, 9. TheLaminate, 3, is stronger since it is thicker, but may also require aTypical Frame, 2, for support. This Laminate, 3, is also, more expensiveand the Cell Area, 5, temperature is hotter due to less head dissipationwhich reduces the output power efficiency of the Solar Panel, 10.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

As mentioned earlier, the present invention includes a variety ofaspects, which may be combined in different ways. The followingdescriptions are provided to list elements and describe some of theembodiments of the present invention. These elements are listed withinitial embodiments, however it should be understood that they may becombined in any manner and in any number to create additionalembodiments. The variously described examples and preferred embodimentsshould not be construed to limit the present invention to only theexplicitly described systems, techniques, and applications. Further,this description should be understood to support and encompassdescriptions and claims of all the various embodiments, systems,techniques, methods, devices, and applications with any number of thedisclosed elements, with each element alone, and also with any and allvarious permutations and combinations of all elements in this or anysubsequent application.

The photovoltaic module may be formed by framing at least one laminatein a frame connectable to at least one repositionable support. Thesupport(s) can be folded up for packaging and shipping, or down invarying degrees for mounting on a surface.

Panel supports can attach to the edge of the panels and also attach tosurface mounts. The surface mount attachment to the panel supports canbe adjusted in height to allow for uneven surfaces. The supports can befolded in varying degrees. The supports can also be used as winddeflectors. The supports, when folded up, stack in a compact fashion togreatly reduce the expense and labor of both packaging and shipping themodules.

All metal parts may be electrically grounded together including thesolar panel frames. This means that the earth ground can be attachedanywhere and all of the metal parts will be electrically groundedtogether.

Photovoltaic laminates may be used in the photovoltaic modules.

Naturally these and other aspects and goals are discussed in thefollowing specification and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a known solar panel.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a component of a known solar panel.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective cut-away view of a component of an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 63 is a cross-sectional view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 64 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 66 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 68 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 70 is a cross-sectional view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 72 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 74 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 75 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 76 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 77 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 78 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 79 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 81 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 82 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 83 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 84 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 85 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 86 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 87 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 88 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 89 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 90 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 91 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 92 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 93 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 94 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 95 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 96 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 97 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 98 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 99 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 100 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 101 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 102 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 103 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 104 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 105 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 106 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 107 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 108 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 109 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 110 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 111 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 112 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 113 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 114 is a cross-sectional view of a component of an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 115 is a cross-sectional view of a component of an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 116 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 117 is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of theinvention.

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

As mentioned earlier, the present invention includes a variety ofaspects, which may be combined in different ways. The followingdescriptions are provided to list elements and describe some of theembodiments of the present invention. These elements are listed withinitial embodiments, however it should be understood that they may becombined in any manner and in any number to create additionalembodiments. The variously described examples and preferred embodimentsshould not be construed to limit the present invention to only theexplicitly described systems, techniques, and applications. Further,this description should be understood to support and encompassdescriptions and claims of all the various embodiments, systems,techniques, methods, devices, and applications with any number of thedisclosed elements, with each element alone, and also with any and allvarious permutations and combinations of all elements in this or anysubsequent application.

FIGS. 11 to 117 show the various types of Solar Panel, 10, with pivotingside supports. The Laminate, 3, can be like the ones shown in FIGS. 5 to10, or any other type of solar laminate. The pivoting side supports arerepositional side supports, meaning they can be easily repositioned witha minimal installation effort. They are also stackable side supports,specifically nestably stackable side supports, which will be discussedin more detail below. This achieves the goal of an installation laborcost savings.

FIG. 11-14 shows the Solar Panel, 10, with Pivoting Supports, 12, on all4 sides of the Solar Panel, 10. The Pivot Rods, 17, and Biting PivotRods, 16, in the Pivot Support, 12, rotate within the Frame, 11, asshown in FIGS. 11-17. FIGS. 11 to 69, and FIGS. 98-117 also use thePivot Rods, 17, and Biting Pivot Rods, 16, in the Pivot Support, 12,which rotates in the Frame, 11.

The Biting Pivot Rod, 16, and the Pivot Rod, 17, can rotate in the FrameHole, 20, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, and FIGS. 17 to 20. Initially theSolar Panel, 10, is shipped as shown in FIG. 21, with the PivotSupports, 12, in the up position. In this position, the Biting Pivot RodFlats, 24, are orientated so that the Biting Pivot Rod Flats, 24, asshown in FIGS. 18 and 19, are in the Hole Rectangular Area, 21, as shownin FIG. 17. In this position, the Biting Pivot Rod Teeth, 23, are notcutting into the Frame, 11. As the Pivot Support, 12, as shown in FIG.21, are rotated downward towards the position shown in FIG. 11-13, theBiting Pivot Rod Teeth, 23, penetrate into the Hole Round Area, 22. Thiscreates an electrical bond between the Frame, 11, and the PivotSupports, 12. With multiple Biting Pivot Rods, 16, the Frames, 11, aremore rigidly tied to the Pivot Supports, 12, which will increase thestrength of the Solar Panel. 10. Maximum strength is achieved with allBiting Pivot Rods, 16, but significant strength can be achieved with oneat each end and in the middle of each Pivot Support, 12. Pivot Rods, 17,would be in the other areas of the Pivot Support, 12. You could alsohave all Pivot Rods, 17, but this would lower the strength of the SolarPanel, 10.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show the Corner Swage, 14. The Corner Swage, 14, fastensthe Frames, 11, securely together. The Corner Swage Teeth, 15, cut intothe Hole Rectangular Area, 21, shown in FIG. 17. This assures electricalgrounding continuity between the Frames, 11.

To help maintain the proper location of the Pivot Support, 12, in theFrame, 11, prior to rotating down the Pivot Support, 12, RetainingRings, 18, are placed on at least one Pivot Rod, 17, or Biting PivotRod, 16, in the Retaining Ring Groove, 19, for each of the PivotSupports, 12. See FIGS. 13 and 14 and FIGS. 18-20.

The Solar Panel, 10, is in the flat position for shipping as shown inFIG. 21. This position allows the Solar Panels, 10, to be nestablystacked on top of each other as shown in FIGS. 25 and 26. Since theFrame, 11, is thin, many more Solar Panels, 10, can be shipped ascompared to the Typical Solar Panel, 1, in the same shipping volume.This is a substantial savings in shipping costs.

Stacking locations between Solar Panels, 10, is achieved using the StackLocation Groove, 25, and the Stack Location Lip, 26, on the Frame, 11,as shown in FIGS. 22 to 24. The Stack Location Lip, 26, in the Frame, 11in an upper Solar Panel, 10, rests in the Stack Location Groove, 25, inthe Frame, 11, of a lower Solar Panel, 10.

The Support Nut, 13, is used to properly locate and secure the bottomcorners of the Pivot Supports, 12, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

FIGS. 29 to 33 show other methods of fastening adjacent Pivot Supports,12, at the bottom corner. A Vertical Snap Connector, 27, is shown inFIG. 29. The Pivot Support, 12, with the Vertical Snap Connector, 27, ispivoted down first. Then the adjacent Pivot Support, 12, is pivoted downand snapped into the Vertical Snap Connector, 27 which fastens the twoPivot Supports, 12, together.

A Slide Connector, 28, is shown FIG. 30. The Slide Connector, 28, ispositioned towards the Frame, 11. The two adjacent Pivot Supports, 12,are pivoted to the down position. The Slide Connector, 28, is thenpushed down the Pivot Support, 12, which holds the Slide Connector, 28,until the Slide Connector, 28, grips the adjacent Pivot Support, 12.This secures the two adjacent Pivot Supports, 12.

The Snap Shape Connection, 29, is shown in FIG. 31. This connection isachieved by the special end shapes of the adjacent Pivot Supports, 12.The Pivot Support 12, with the S End Shape, 30, is pivoted down first.The Pivot Support, 12, with the Eye Loop End Shape, 31, is then pivoteddown causing the Eye Loop End Shape, 31, to snap onto the S End Shape,30, which secures the two adjacent Pivot Supports, 12, together.

FIGS. 32 and 33 show the fastening the two adjacent Pivot Supports, 12,together using a Slip Ring Connector, 32. The two adjacent PivotSupports, 12 are pivoted down as shown. The Slip Ring Connector, 32, isthen force over the three Vertical Rods, 33, which then locks the PivotSupports, 12, together. The Slip Ring Connector, 32, may be crimped inplace.

The Frame, 11, is continuous around the Laminate, 3, as shown in FIGS.11 to 17. The Frame, 11, does not have to continuous to support theLaminate, 3. FIGS. 27 and 28 show a Segmented Frame, 34, for the SolarPanel, 10. The Laminate, 3, can be laminates as shown in FIGS. 5, 9, and10 or any other type of photovoltaic, support or protective layers.

FIGS. 34 to 42 show connectors that both fasten the adjacent PivotSupports, 12, and fasten the Solar Panels, 10 to other structures and toeach other.

FIGS. 34 to 36 shows the Short Horizontal Connector, 35, and the LongHorizontal Connector, 36, fastened to two adjacent Pivot Supports, 12.In FIG. 36, the Short Horizontal Connector, 35, and the Long HorizontalConnector, 36, is shown in the position right after the Pivot Supports,12, are pivoted down after shipping. FIG. 35, shows the Short HorizontalConnector, 35, and the Long Horizontal Connector, 36, rotated in aposition ready to accept a fastener through the Connector Hole, 37. Whenthe Short Horizontal Connector, 35, and the Long Horizontal Connector,36, is in this position, it will be referred to as HorizontalConnectors, 38, as shown in FIG. 35 and FIGS. 37 to 40.

FIGS. 37 and 38 shows how the Horizontal Connectors, 38 can be fastenedto a Surface, 39, using Connector Fasteners, 41. The Surface, 39, can bebut not limited to a roof, balcony, patio, or other solid groundstructure.

FIGS. 39 and 40 shows how the Horizontal Connectors, 38 can be fastenedto a Mount, 40, using Connector Fasteners, 41. The Mount, 40, can be butis not limited to a roof mount, ground mount, or solar racking.

FIG. 41 shows a Short Vertical Connector, 42, connecting two adjacentPivot Supports together using Connector Fastener 41. It also shows aShort Horizontal Connector, 35, on a Pivot Support, 12, that can be usedto attach the Solar Panel. 10, by using a Connector Fastener, 41,inserted through the Connector Hole, 37. Note that the Short VerticalConnector, 42, is similar to the Short Horizontal Connector, 35, with adifferent orientation.

FIG. 42 shows two Solar Panels, 10, connected together with ConnectorFasteners, 41, Short Vertical Connectors, 42, and Mount, 40. Theadjacent Pivot Supports, 12, are also fastened together.

It should be noted that the Figures usually show only one corner of theadjacent Pivot Support, 12, fastened together and/or fastened to theSurface, 39 or Mount, 40. This can apply to all adjacent Pivot Supports,12, on multiple Solar Panels, 10. One of more Solar Panels, 10, may beattached together. This applies throughout this patent.

Ballast, 43, can also be used to hold down the Solar Panel, 10 as shownin FIGS. 43-63. FIGS. 43-49 shows Ballast, 43, resting on top of theBallast Feet, 45. The Ballast Foot, 45, rests on the Surface, 39. TheBallast Foot Lips, 46, locate the Ballast, 43, in the Ballast Foot, 45,and keeps the Ballast 43, contained on the Ballast Foot, 45.

The Pivot Support, 12, is snapped into and confined to the Ballast FootGroove, 47, with the Ballast Foot Snap, 48. The bottom of the PivotSupport, 12, can be placed in any of the Ballast Foot Grooves, 47, asshown in FIGS. 45 to 48. The Ballast Foot Grooves, 47, also can be usedas a space locator between Solar Panels, 10 as can be seen in FIG. 49.The Ballast Foot, 45, can be used in between adjacent the Pivot Rods,17, and Biting Pivot Rods, 16, on any of the four Pivot Supports, 12, oneach Solar Panel, 10. Note that the Ballast, 43, could be placeddirectly on the bottom of the Pivot Support, 12, without a Ballast Foot,45. In many situations, it is better to use the Ballast Foot, 45, todistribute the load on the Surface, 39, and to keep the Ballast, 43,from shifting.

FIGS. 50 to 63 show the Solar Panel, 10, with Folding Ballast Trays, 49.FIGS. 50 and 51 shows a Solar Panel, 10, with Ballast, 43, on theFolding Ballast Tray, 49, and FIGS. 52 to 55 show a Solar Panel, 10,without the Ballast, 43. The Folding Tray Ballast Lips, 51, hold theBallast, 43 in place.

The Folding Ballast Tray, 49, is folded up in the shipping configurationas shown in FIG. 59. When the Pivot Supports, 12, are folded down, theFolding Ballast Tray, 49, is maneuvered so that the Folding Ballast TraySupport Lip, 50, rests on the adjacent Pivot Support, 12, as shown inFIGS. 53 to 55. The Folding Ballast Tray Retaining Fold, 52, on theFolding Ballast Tray, 49, rotates around the Pivot Support, 12, in FIGS.53 to 58 and FIGS. 61 to 63.

When the Folding Ballast Tray, 49, is folded up as shown in FIGS. 59 to63, the Folding Ballast Tray Protrusion, 53, is in the Pivot SupportNotch, 54, as shown in the cross section in FIG. 63. The Pivot SupportNotch, 54, is also shown in FIG. 58. When the Folding Ballast Tray, 49,is folded down as shown FIGS. 52 to 57, the Folding Ballast TrayProtrusion, 53, is highly compressed against the round section of thePivot Support, 12, as shown in the cross section in FIG. 57. If thePivot Support, 12, and the Folding Ballast Tray, 49, are made ofconductive metal, then Interference Contact Area, 55, will create goodelectrical ground path between the Pivot Support, 12, and the FoldingBallast Tray, 49.

Another way to create an electrical bond, would be to create a threadshape like the Biting Pivot Rod, 16, on the bottom of the Pivot Support,12, so the threads would cut into the oval formed Folding Ballast TrayRetaining Fold, 52.

The creation of a good electrical bond should not be limited to the 2methods mentioned. The electrical bond and the Interference ContactArea, 55, may be created when the Folding Ballast Tray, 49, is rotateddown to the position to accept the Ballast, 47.

It should be noted, that this same Interference Contact Area, 55, couldbe used for the Short Horizontal Connector, 35, the Long HorizontalConnector, 36, and the Short Vertical Connector, 42.

Figures to 64-110 show some of Pivot Supports, 12, are not perpendicularto the Solar Panels, 10. The Pivot Rods, 17, and Biting Pivot Rods, 16,are shown as before. Some other differences will be described further.

FIGS. 64 to 110 show Pivot Supports, 12, that are stronger thanpreviously shown. Additional Cross Rods, 56, are added to the PivotSupports, 12, in FIGS. 64 to 72 and FIGS. 98 to 110. Solid sides in thePivot Supports, 12, are shown in FIGS. 86 to 97. Solid sides aid inreducing the aerodynamic lift during high winds on these slanted SolarPanels, 10. Slanted Pivot Supports, 12, in the low and high side of theSolar Panel, 10, help also.

FIGS. 69 and 70 show a Plastic Film, 59, bonded to the Panel Supports,12. A layer of Plastic Film, 59, is on each side of the Pivot Support,12, and both sides of the Plastic Film, 59, is bonded to each other withthe Pivot Support, 12, sandwiched in the middle. FIG. 70 shows a typicalcross section of small part of the Pivot Support, 12.

FIGS. 66 and 67 show a slight variation of the Pivot Support, 12, andshows how the adjacent Pivot Supports, 12, are attached with the SupportNut, 13. Notice that the Pivot Support Top Beam, 60, and the PivotSupport Bottom Beam, 61, are larger which makes the Pivot Support, 12,Stronger.

FIG. 68 shows the Solar Panel, 10 ready to be stacked prior to packagingfor warehousing or shipping.

FIGS. 71 to 97 show Inside Pivot Frame, 63. This can be seen moreclearly in FIGS. 78 and 79.

The Pivot Support, 12 can have Offset Segmented Outside Pivot SupportTops, 57, Segmented Outside Pivot Support Tops, 58, and ContinuousOutside Pivot Support Tops, 62. See FIGS. 74 to 97 for more detail. AnyPivot Support, 12, can be interchanged with the different outside pivotSupport top types. One is better than the other depending of the type ofdesign and application. Shown are the most common types for the SolarPanel, 10.

Adjacent inside Pivot Frames, 63, are joined together with a FrameScrew, 64, as shown in FIG. 75. The head of the Frame Screw, 64, holdsin the Retaining Plug, 65, as shown in FIGS. 75 and 76. The RetainingPlug, 65, holds the adjacent Segmented Outside Pivot Support Top, 58. Itcould also hold the Offset Segmented Outside Pivot Support Top, 57, orthe Continuous Outside Pivot Support Top, 62.

FIG. 83 shows a Solar Panel, 10, with Continuous Outside Pivot SupportTop, 62, and Offset Segmented Outside Pivot Support Top, 57, with thePivot Supports, 12, in an up position. FIGS. 84 and 85 show how theSolar Panel 10 would look with these Solar Panels, 10, stacked.

FIG. 91 shows a Solar Panel, 10, with Segmented Outside Pivot SupportTop, 58, and Offset Segmented Outside Pivot Support Top, 57, with thesolid Pivot Supports, 12, in an up position. FIG. 92 to shows how theSolar Panel 10 would look with these Solar Panels, 10, stacked.

Offset Segmented Outside Pivot Support Top, 57, Segmented Outside PivotSupport Top, 58, and Continuous Outside Pivot Support Top, 62, grip theInside Pivot Frame, 63, with a C grip. This allows these Outside PivotSupports to pivot around the Inside Pivot Frame, 63, to allow rotationfrom packaging location to final assembly location. See FIGS. 77 to 79and FIG. 81.

The Solar Panel, 10, can be placed directly on the Surface, 39, or on asIntermediate Structure, 70, and the Intermediate Structure, 70, wouldcontact the Surface, 39. The Intermediate Structure, 70 may be but notlimited to a mount, solar panel spacer, foot, pad, or solar racking. SeeFIGS. 72 and 73.

FIGS. 86 to 97 show the Solar Panel, 10 with solid Pivot Supports, 12.The solid can be but is not limited to wavy sheet, composite, hollowcore, honeycomb, foam sheet, lamination, plastic or lightweight solid.

FIG. 93 shows a Solar Panel, 10, with a solid side Pivot Support, 12,that is slanted to reduce wind lift. Any of the Pivot Supports, 12, canbe of different angles shown in order to reduce the wind drag andminimize lift.

FIGS. 98 to 110 show a Solar Panel, 10, with 2 Pivot Supports, 12, 2Ballast Pivot Supports, 67, with Ballast, 43 and Pads, 68. The BallastPivot Supports, 67, are formed so that the Ballast, 43, rests on theBallast Pivot Support Cross Rods, 73. See FIGS. 101 and 102.

As shown in FIGS. 98 and 99, there may be a Pad, 68, on each corner ofthe Solar Panel, 10. This helps distribute the loan on a Surface, 39,protects the Surface, 39, and helps increase friction to prevent theSolar Panel, 10, from sliding on the Surface, 39.

FIG. 100, shows another view of the Solar Panel, 10, in FIG. 98. FIG.101 is the same as FIG. 100 except the Ballast, 43, is removed to get abetter view of the Ballast Pivot Supports, 67.

As shown in FIG. 102, a Ballast Rod, 70, keeps the Ballast, 43,contained on the Ballast Pivot Support, 67. A Ballast Clip, 69, can alsocontain the Ballast, 43, as shown in FIGS. 103 to 105. The Ballast Clip,69 is shipped in the position shown in FIGS. 106 and 110. Before puttingthe Ballast, 43 on the Ballast Pivot Cross Rods, 73, the Ballast Clip,69 is rotated on the Ballast Pivot Support Rod, 72 to the position shownin FIGS. 103 to 105. The Ballast Pivot, 73, is restricted from rotatingfurther when the Ballast Clip Stop Edge, 71, contacts the Ballast PivotSupport Cross Rod, 73, as shown in FIG. 104.

Electrical ground continuity between the Ballast Clip, 69, and theBallast Pivot Support Rod, 72 may be done with the same groundingdiscussed for the Folding Ballast Tray, 49.

It should be noted, that the Pivot Supports, 12 and Ballast PivotSupports, 71, could be inserted after shipping. This is valid for SolarPanels except for some of the Pivot Supports, 12, in FIGS. 75 to 92. Ifthe Frames, 11, in these FIGS. 75 to 92, were changed to the Frames, 11,as shown in FIGS. 96 and 97, then all these Pivot Supports, 12, couldalso be installed later.

For the Pivot Supports, 12, with the Biting Pivot Rods, 16, and thePivot Rods, 17, the Retaining Ring, 18, would have to be installed afterthe Pivot Supports, 12, were installed as shown in FIGS. 19-21. For theSolar Panels, 10, with the Pivot Supports, 12, like the ones shown inFIGS. 96 and 97, the Frame Screw, 64, would have to be removed and thePivot Supports, 12, installed as shown in FIG. 97. The Retaining Plug,65, and the Frame Screw, 64, would be installed after the Pivot Supportswere installed as shown in FIG. 96.

For the Solar Panels, 10, to be stacked as shown in FIGS. 25, 84, 92,and 108, the Junction Box with Cable, 74, needs to be thin. See FIG.111. If the Junction Box and Cable, 74, is too thick, then the SolarPanels, 10, will need to be stacked differently as shown in FIGS. 116and 117. Two Solar Panels, 10, are stacked together with the JunctionBoxes with Cables, 74, facing each other but at opposite ends. See FIGS.112 to 115. This leaves a space between the frames for the JunctionBoxes and Cable, 74. The space increases as the Junction Box is thicker.The thickness of the frame on the glass side could be reduced to allowfor higher stacking density. For shipment, the space would be maintainedwith packaging spacers not shown.

The Junction Box and Cable, 74, could also be attached to the edge ofthe Laminate, 3 (not shown). This could further increase the stackingdensity.

Each of these pair of Solar Panels, 10, is stacked as shown in FIGS. 116and 117. This works for all the Solar Panels, 10, except for the SolarPanel, 10, with the Ballast Panel Support, 67, as shown in FIGS. 98 to110. These would need to be stacked as shown in FIGS. 108 and 109 butwith more space between each of the Frames, 11.

The Solar Panels, 10, shown in FIGS. 64 to 110 are shown with the lowand high side on the long side of the Solar Panel, 10, which isconsidered in the Landscape direction. This invention is not limited tothis orientation but also includes Solar Panels, 10 with the low andhigh side on the short side of the Solar Panel, 10, which is in thePortrait direction.

Again, different features were discussed for various photovoltaicmodules. The features of each of the photovoltaic modules are not to beconsidered unique to one photovoltaic module but should be considered asuseful for all of the presented photovoltaic modules. Any of the bitingfeatures on the pivot supports are examples and could change withoutdistracting from the purpose of the biting features. All the solarpanels were shown in the landscape direction. These solar panels couldalso be in the portrait direction. While the invention has beendescribed in connection with a preferred embodiment, it is not intendedto limit the scope of the invention to the particular form set forth,but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives,modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit andscope of the invention.

Examples of alternative clauses and claims to be considered as part ofthis invention disclosure and available for eventual assertion as claimsinclude:

1. A photovoltaic module comprising:

at least one photovoltaic solar panel laminate; and

at least one repositional side support along an edge of said laminate.

2. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said at least one repositional side support is continuous alongsaid edge of said laminate.3. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said at least one repositional side support is segmented alongsaid edge of said laminate.4. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said at least one repositional side support allows efficientstacking of multiple modules.5. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein at least two of said repositional side supports are interlockedwith an interlock.6. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 5, or any other clause,wherein said interlock comprises at least one fastener.7. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 5, or any other clause,wherein said interlock comprises a snap feature.8. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 5, or any other clause,wherein said interlock comprises a slide lock.9. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 5, or any other clause,wherein said interlock comprises a crimp lock.10. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 5, or any other clause,wherein said interlock comprises interlocking brackets.11. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 5, or any other clause,wherein said interlock comprises a bracket and connector interlock.12. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,further comprising at least one repositional mounting bracket.13. A photovoltaic module as described in any of clauses 10, 11, and 12,or any other clause, wherein said bracket is self-grounded afterrepositioning.14. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,further comprising at least one repositional ballast tray.15. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,further comprising at least one ballast tray that is added afterrepositioning said repositional side support.16. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said at least one repositional side support is configured tohold ballast.17. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,further comprising at least one inside pivot.18. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,further comprising at least one outside pivot.19. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said at least one repositional side support is self-groundedafter repositioning.20. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said at least one repositional side support is interlockablewith repositional side supports on separate photovoltaic solar panelmodules.21. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 20, or any otherclause, further comprising at least one bracket and connector interlock.22. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 21, or any otherclause, further comprising at least one racking interlock.23. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,further comprising at least one wind deflector.24. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said repositional side support comprises a welded rod.25. A photovoltaic module as described in any of clauses 23 and 24, orany other clause, wherein said wind deflector comprises at least onelaminate film attached to at least one welded rod.26. A photovoltaic module as described in clause 1, or any other clause,wherein said at least one repositional side support can be added beforeinstallation of said photovoltaic module on a surface.27. A method of supporting photovoltaic modules comprising the steps of:

providing at least one photovoltaic solar panel laminate;

establishing at least one repositional side support along an edge ofsaid laminate;

repositioning said repositional side support; and

supporting said laminate with said repositional side support.

28. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, whereinsaid repositional side support is continuous along said edge of saidlaminate.29. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, whereinsaid repositional side support is segmented along said edge of saidlaminate.30. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of efficiently stacking more than one photovoltaicmodule, wherein said step of efficiently stacking more than onephotovoltaic module is accomplished before said step of repositioningsaid repositional side support.31. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of interlocking at least two repositional sidesupports.32. A method as described in clause 31, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of interlocking at least two repositional side supportscomprises the step of fastener interlocking at least two repositionalside supports.33. A method as described in clause 31, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of interlocking at least two repositional side supportscomprises the step of snap interlocking at least two repositional sidesupports.34. A method as described in clause 31, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of interlocking at least two repositional side supportscomprises the step of slide interlocking at least two repositional sidesupports.35. A method as described in clause 31, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of interlocking at least two repositional side supportscomprises the step of crimp interlocking at least two repositional sidesupports.36. A method as described in clause 31, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of interlocking at least two repositional side supportscomprises the step of bracket interlocking at least two repositionalside supports.37. A method as described in clause 31, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of interlocking at least two repositional side supportscomprises the step of bracket-and-connector interlocking at least tworepositional side supports.38. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of repositional bracket mounting said photovoltaicmodule.39. A method as described in any of clauses 36, 37, or 38, or any otherclause, further comprising the step of self-grounding said bracket aftersaid step of repositioning said repositional side support isaccomplished.40. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of establishing at least one repositional ballasttray.41. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of adding at least one repositional ballast trayafter said step of repositioning said repositional side support isaccomplished.42. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of holding ballast after said step of repositioningsaid repositional side support is accomplished.43. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of repositioning said repositional side support comprises thestep of inside pivoting said repositional side support.44. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of repositioning said repositional side support comprises thestep of outside pivoting said repositional side support.45. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of self-grounding said repositional side supportafter said step of repositioning said repositional side support isaccomplished.46. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of cross-module interlocking at least tworepositional side supports.47. A method as described in clause 46, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of cross-module interlocking at least two repositional sidesupports comprises the step of bracket-and-connector interlocking atleast two repositional side supports.48. A method as described in clause 47, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of cross-module interlocking at least two repositional sidesupports comprises the step of racking at least two photovoltaicmodules.49. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of deflecting wind from said photovoltaic module.50. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, whereinsaid repositional side support comprises at least one welded rod.51. A method as described in any of clauses 49 and 50, or any otherclause, wherein said repositional side support comprises at least onewelded rod and further comprising the steps of:

attaching at least one laminate film to said welded rod; and

deflecting wind from said photovoltaic module.

52. A method as described in clause 27, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of establishing at least one repositional side support can beaccomplished before said module is installed on a surface.53. A photovoltaic module comprising:

at least one photovoltaic solar panel laminate; and

at least one stackable side support along an edge of said photovoltaicsolar panel laminate.

54. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side support is continuous along said edge of saidphotovoltaic solar panel laminate.55. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side support is segmented along said edge of saidphotovoltaic solar panel laminate.56. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising additional modules efficiently stacked with said photovoltaicsolar panel module.57. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one stackable support interlock.58. A photovoltaic module as in clause 57, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable support interlock comprises a fastener.59. A photovoltaic module as in clause 57, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable support interlock comprises a snap feature.60. A photovoltaic module as in clause 57, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable support interlock comprises a slide lock.61. A photovoltaic module as in clause 57, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable support interlock comprises a crimp lock.62. A photovoltaic module as in clause 57, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable support interlock comprises a bracket interlock.63. A photovoltaic module as in clause 57, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable support interlock comprises a bracket and connectorinterlock.64. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one stackable mounting bracket.65. A photovoltaic module as in any of clauses 62, 63, or 64, or anyother clause, wherein said bracket is self-grounded after repositioning.66. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one stackable ballast tray.67. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one ballast tray added to said photovoltaic moduleafter repositioning said stackable side support.68. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side support is configured to hold ballast after it isrepositioned.69. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one inside pivot.70. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one outside pivot.71. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side support is self-grounding after it is repositioned.72. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side support is interlockable with stackable sidesupports on separate photovoltaic solar panel modules.73. A photovoltaic module as in clause 72, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one stackable bracket & connector interlock.74. A photovoltaic module as in clause 73, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one stackable racking interlock.75. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, furthercomprising at least one stackable wind deflector.76. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side support comprises at least one welded rod.77. A photovoltaic module as in any of clauses 75 or 76, or any otherclause, wherein said stackable wind deflector comprises at least onestackable laminate film attached to at least one welded rod.78. A photovoltaic module as in clause 53, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side support can be added to said photovoltaic solarpanel laminate before installation of said photovoltaic module on asurface.79. A method of storing photovoltaic modules comprising the steps of:

establishing at least two photovoltaic solar panel laminates;

providing at least two stackable side supports along at least two edgesof said at least two photovoltaic solar panel laminates;

positioning said at least two stackable side supports such that they aresubstantially parallel to said at least two photovoltaic solar panellaminates; and

stacking said at least two photovoltaic solar panel laminates and saidat least two stackable side supports atop each other.

80. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side supports are continuous along said edges of saidlaminates.81. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side supports are segmented along said edges of saidlaminates.82. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of stacking comprises the step of efficiently stacking atleast two photovoltaic modules atop each other.83. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

providing at least two stackable interlocks; and

stacking said at least two stackable interlocks atop each other.

84. A method as described in clause 83, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of providing at least two stackable interlocks comprises thestep of providing at least two fastener interlocks.85. A method as described in clause 83, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of providing at least two stackable interlocks comprises thestep of providing at least two snap features.86. A method as described in clause 83, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of providing at least two stackable interlocks comprises thestep of providing at least two slide locks.87. A method as described in clause 83, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of providing at least two stackable interlocks comprises thestep of providing at least two crimp locks.88. A method as described in clause 83, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of providing at least two stackable interlocks comprises thestep of providing at least two interlocking brackets.89. A method as described in clause 83, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of providing at least two stackable interlocks comprises thestep of providing at least two bracket-and-connector interlocks.90. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

providing at least two stackable bracket mounts; and

stacking said at least two stackable bracket mounts atop each other.

91. A method as described in any of clauses 88, 89, or 90, or any otherclause, further comprising the steps of:

separating said brackets from each other;

repositioning said brackets; and

self-grounding said brackets.

92. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

establishing at least two stackable ballast trays; and

stacking said at least two stackable ballast trays atop each other.

93. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

separating said photovoltaic solar panel laminates and said stackableside supports;

repositioning said stackable side supports; and

adding at least one repositional ballast tray.

94. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

separating said photovoltaic solar panel laminates and said stackableside supports;

repositioning said stackable side supports; and

holding ballast.

95. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of positioning said stackable side supports comprises the stepof inside pivoting said stackable side supports.96. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of positioning said stackable side supports comprises the stepof outside pivoting said stackable side supports.97. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

separating said photovoltaic solar panel laminates and said stackableside supports;

repositioning said stackable side supports; and

self-grounding said stackable side supports.

98. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

separating said photovoltaic solar panel laminates and said stackableside supports;

repositioning said stackable side supports; and

cross-module interlocking at least two stackable side supports.

99. A method as described in clause 98, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of cross-module interlocking at least two stackable sidesupports comprises the step of bracket-and-connector interlocking atleast two stackable side supports.100. A method as described in clause 99, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of cross-module interlocking at least two stackable sidesupports comprises the step of racking at least two photovoltaicmodules.101. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the steps of:

separating said photovoltaic solar panel laminates and said stackableside supports;

repositioning said stackable side supports; and

deflecting wind from said photovoltaic solar panel laminates.

102. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, whereinsaid stackable side supports comprise at least two welded rods.103. A method as described in any of clauses 101 and 102, or any otherclause, wherein said stackable side supports comprise at least twowelded rods and further comprising the steps of:

attaching at least one laminate film to said welded rods; and

deflecting wind from said photovoltaic solar panel laminates.

104. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, whereinsaid step of providing at least two stackable side supports can beaccomplished before said photovoltaic solar panel laminates areinstalled on a surface.105. A method as described in clause 79, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of packaging said stackable photovoltaic solar panellaminates and said stackable side supports in a single package.106. A method as described in clause 105, or any other clause, furthercomprising the step of shipping said single package.

As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts ofthe present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. It involvesboth photovoltaic module supporting techniques as well as particularphotovoltaic modules. In this application, the supporting techniques aredisclosed as part of the results shown to be achieved by the variousmodules described and as steps which are inherent to utilization. Theyare simply the natural result of utilizing the modules as intended anddescribed. In addition, while some modules are disclosed, it should beunderstood that these not only accomplish certain methods but also canbe varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the foregoing,all of these facets should be understood to be encompassed by thisdisclosure.

The discussion included in this application is intended to serve as abasic description. The reader should be aware that the specificdiscussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible; manyalternatives are implicit. It also may not fully explain the genericnature of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature orelement can actually be representative of a broader function or of agreat variety of alternative or equivalent elements. Again, these areimplicitly included in this disclosure. Where the invention is describedin device-oriented terminology, each element of the device implicitlyperforms a function. Apparatus claims may not only be included for thedevice described, but also method or process claims may be included toaddress the functions the invention and each element performs. Neitherthe description nor the terminology is intended to limit the scope ofthe claims that will be included in any subsequent patent application.

It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be madewithout departing from the essence of the invention. Such changes arealso implicitly included in the description. They still fall within thescope of this invention. A broad disclosure encompassing the explicitembodiment(s) shown, the great variety of implicit alternativeembodiments, and the broad methods or processes and the like areencompassed by this disclosure and may be relied upon when drafting theclaims for any subsequent patent application. It should be understoodthat such language changes and broader or more detailed claiming may beaccomplished at a later date (such as by any required deadline) or inthe event the applicant subsequently seeks a patent filing based on thisfiling. With this understanding, the reader should be aware that thisdisclosure is to be understood to support any subsequently filed patentapplication that may seek examination of as broad a base of claims asdeemed within the applicant's right and may be designed to yield apatent covering numerous aspects of the invention both independently andas an overall system.

Further, each of the various elements of the invention and claims mayalso be achieved in a variety of manners. Additionally, when used orimplied, an element is to be understood as encompassing individual aswell as plural structures that may or may not be physically connected.This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation,be it a variation of an embodiment of any apparatus embodiment, a methodor process embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element ofthese. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosurerelates to elements of the invention, the words for each element may beexpressed by equivalent apparatus terms or method terms—even if only thefunction or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even moregeneric terms should be considered to be encompassed in the descriptionof each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desiredto make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this inventionis entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that allactions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as anelement which causes that action. Similarly, each physical elementdisclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the actionwhich that physical element facilitates. Regarding this last aspect, asbut one example, the disclosure of a “support” should be understood toencompass disclosure of the act of “supporting”—whether explicitlydiscussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure ofthe act of “supporting”, such a disclosure should be understood toencompass disclosure of a “support” and even a “means for supporting.”Such changes and alternative terms are to be understood to be explicitlyincluded in the description. Further, each such means (whetherexplicitly so described or not) should be understood as encompassing allelements that can perform the given function, and all descriptions ofelements that perform a described function should be understood as anon-limiting example of means for performing that function.

Any patents, publications, or other references mentioned in thisapplication for patent are hereby incorporated by reference. Anypriority case(s) claimed by this application is hereby appended andhereby incorporated by reference. In addition, as to each term used itshould be understood that unless its utilization in this application isinconsistent with a broadly supporting interpretation, common dictionarydefinitions should be understood as incorporated for each term and alldefinitions, alternative terms, and synonyms such as contained in theRandom House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition are herebyincorporated by reference. Finally, all references listed below or otherinformation statement filed with the application are hereby appended andhereby incorporated by reference, however, as to each of the above, tothe extent that such information or statements incorporated by referencemight be considered inconsistent with the patenting of this/theseinvention(s) such statements are expressly not to be considered as madeby the applicant(s).

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ZS Comp for composition shingle roofs, pg 1-2 OMG PowerGrip Roof MountSystem; pg 1-2; Roofing Products; RM1004, Rev. 1113 OMG RoofingProducts, Roofing Report; pg 1-2; GEN1009A, Rev. 1113 Sunpower T5 SolarRoof Tile Spec Sheet, pg 1-2 U.S. Provisional Pat. application Ser. No.61/958,564; filed Jul. 31, 2013; entire Image File Wrapper available onUSPTO PAIRS U.S. Provisional Pat. application Ser. No. 61/963,038; filedNov. 21, 2013; entire Image File Wrapper available on USPTO PAIRS U.S.Provisional Pat. application Ser. No. 61/956,167; filed Jan. 24, 2014;entire Image File Wrapper available on USPTO PAIRS

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to have support to claim andmake a statement of invention to at least: i) each of the photovoltaicmodules as herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methodsdisclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicitvariations of each of these modules and methods, iv) those alternativedesigns which accomplish each of the functions shown as are disclosedand described, v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplisheach of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which isdisclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown asseparate and independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced bythe various systems or components disclosed, viii) the resultingproducts produced by such systems or components, ix) each system,method, and element shown or described as now applied to any specificfield or devices mentioned, x) methods and apparatuses substantially asdescribed hereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanyingexamples, xi) an apparatus for performing the methods described hereincomprising means for performing the steps, xii) the various combinationsand permutations of each of the elements disclosed, xiii) eachpotentially dependent claim or concept as a dependency on each and everyone of the independent claims or concepts presented, and xiv) allinventions described herein.

With regard to claims whether now or later presented for examination, itshould be understood that for practical reasons and so as to avoid greatexpansion of the examination burden, the applicant may at any timepresent only initial claims or perhaps only initial claims with onlyinitial dependencies. The office and any third persons interested inpotential scope of this or subsequent applications should understandthat broader claims may be presented at a later date in this case, in acase claiming the benefit of this case, or in any continuation in spiteof any preliminary amendments, other amendments, claim language, orarguments presented, thus throughout the pendency of any case there isno intention to disclaim or surrender any potential subject matter. Itshould be understood that if or when broader claims are presented, suchmay require that any relevant prior art that may have been considered atany prior time may need to be re-visited since it is possible that tothe extent any amendments, claim language, or arguments presented inthis or any subsequent application are considered as made to avoid suchprior art, such reasons may be eliminated by later presented claims orthe like. Both the examiner and any person otherwise interested inexisting or later potential coverage, or considering if there has at anytime been any possibility of an indication of disclaimer or surrender ofpotential coverage, should be aware that no such surrender or disclaimeris ever intended or ever exists in this or any subsequent application.Limitations such as arose in Hakim v. Cannon Avent Group, PLC, 479 F.3d1313 (Fed. Cir 2007), or the like are expressly not intended in this orany subsequent related matter. In addition, support should be understoodto exist to the degree required under new matter laws—including but notlimited to European Patent Convention Article 123(2) and United StatesPatent Law 35 USC 132 or other such laws—to permit the addition of anyof the various dependencies or other elements presented under oneindependent claim or concept as dependencies or elements under any otherindependent claim or concept. In drafting any claims at any time whetherin this application or in any subsequent application, it should also beunderstood that the applicant has intended to capture as full and broada scope of coverage as legally available. To the extent thatinsubstantial substitutes are made, to the extent that the applicant didnot in fact draft any claim so as to literally encompass any particularembodiment, and to the extent otherwise applicable, the applicant shouldnot be understood to have in any way intended to or actuallyrelinquished such coverage as the applicant simply may not have beenable to anticipate all eventualities; one skilled in the art, should notbe reasonably expected to have drafted a claim that would have literallyencompassed such alternative embodiments.

Further, if or when used, the use of the transitional phrase“comprising” is used to maintain the “open-end” claims herein, accordingto traditional claim interpretation. Thus, unless the context requiresotherwise, it should be understood that the term “comprise” orvariations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, are intended to implythe inclusion of a stated element or step or group of elements or stepsbut not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of elementsor steps. Such terms should be interpreted in their most expansive formso as to afford the applicant the broadest coverage legally permissible.The use of the phrase, “or any other claim” is used to provide supportfor any claim to be dependent on any other claim, such as anotherdependent claim, another independent claim, a previously listed claim, asubsequently listed claim, and the like. As one clarifying example, if aclaim were dependent “on claim 20 or any other claim” or the like, itcould be re-drafted as dependent on claim 1, claim 15, or even claim 25(if such were to exist) if desired and still fall within the disclosure.It should be understood that this phrase also provides support for anycombination of elements in the claims and even incorporates any desiredproper antecedent basis for certain claim combinations such as withcombinations of method, apparatus, process, and the like claims.

Finally, any claims set forth at any time are hereby incorporated byreference as part of this description of the invention, and theapplicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or a portion ofsuch incorporated content of such claims as additional description tosupport any of or all of the claims or any element or component thereof,and the applicant further expressly reserves the right to move anyportion of or all of the incorporated content of such claims or anyelement or component thereof from the description into the claims orvice-versa as necessary to define the matter for which protection issought by this application or by any subsequent continuation, division,or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain any benefitof, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws,rules, or regulations of any country or treaty, and such contentincorporated by reference shall survive during the entire pendency ofthis application including any subsequent continuation, division, orcontinuation-in-part application thereof or any reissue or extensionthereon.

1. A photovoltaic module comprising: at least one photovoltaic solarpanel laminate; and at least one pivoting side support along an edge ofsaid laminate. 2-4. (canceled)
 5. A photovoltaic module as described inclaim 1 wherein at least two pivoting side supports are interlocked withan interlock. 6-9. (canceled)
 10. A photovoltaic module as described inclaim 5 wherein said interlock comprises interlocking brackets.
 11. Aphotovoltaic module as described in claim 5 wherein said interlockcomprises a bracket and connector interlock.
 12. A photovoltaic moduleas described in claim 1 further comprising at least one pivotingmounting bracket.
 13. A photovoltaic module as described in any ofclaims 10, 11, and 12, wherein said bracket is self-grounded afterpivoting. 14-18. (canceled)
 19. A photovoltaic module as described inclaim 1 wherein said at least one pivoting side support is self-groundedafter pivoting.
 20. A photovoltaic module as described in claim 1wherein said at least one pivoting side support is interlockable withpivoting side supports on separate photovoltaic solar panel modules.21-22. (canceled)
 23. A photovoltaic module as described in claim 1further comprising at least one wind deflector. 24-26. (canceled)
 27. Amethod of supporting photovoltaic modules comprising the steps of:providing at least one photovoltaic solar panel laminate; establishingat least one pivoting side support along an edge of said laminate;pivoting said pivoting side support; and supporting said laminate withsaid pivoting side support. 28-52. (canceled)
 53. A photovoltaic modulecomprising: at least one photovoltaic solar panel laminate; and at leastone stackable side support along an edge of said photovoltaic solarpanel laminate, wherein said stackable side support is continuous alongsaid edge of said photovoltaic solar panel laminate. 54-56. (canceled)57. A photovoltaic module as in claim 53 further comprising at least onestackable support interlock. 58-61. (canceled)
 62. A photovoltaic moduleas in claim 57 wherein said stackable support interlock comprises abracket interlock.
 63. A photovoltaic module as in claim 57 wherein saidstackable support interlock comprises a bracket and connector interlock.64. A photovoltaic module as in claim 53 further comprising at least onestackable mounting bracket.
 65. A photovoltaic module as in any of claim62, 63, or 64, wherein said bracket is self-grounded after pivoting.66-106. (canceled)